Emirati Paralympic Cyclist 'Determination is Key, There is No Disability

Emirati Paralympic cyclist Ahmed Al Badwawi is determined to achieve more success after making his debut at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Al Badwawi, who lost his right arm in a car accident in 2018, took up cycling a year later with encouragement from a friend. At 26 years old, he is competing among 220 cyclists in 51 events at the Games, and aims to maintain his position among the world’s elite.

In an interview with The National, Al Badwawi shared his philosophy: “I say to people there is no disability. You need to focus on a sport and keep competing, and you will surely develop. I’m proud to compete in the Games, proud to represent my country.” He was also a flag bearer for the UAE at the opening ceremony, part of a 13-member team representing the nation.

Al Badwawi will participate in two races on September 4 and September 6, held in Clichy-sous-Bois, a suburb of Paris. His bicycle, though resembling a standard racing bike, has been adapted with all gears shifted to the left to accommodate his condition, as his right arm ends above the elbow.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Paralympic cycling utilizes standard bicycles, tricycles, and tandems modified to fit the needs of athletes. Competitions are tailored to various abilities, and Al Badwawi’s bike is specially adjusted for his needs. UAE national team coach Mohammed Al Murawwi highlighted the challenges faced by Al Badwawi: “The bike and rider should move as one unit, as one person. The challenge is that he has a right-hand disability and competitors from other nations have both hands. Controlling the bike on turns or downhill will be easier for others. He needs to be focused on both balance and speed, and our training is designed to help him manage this.”

Al Badwawi, who won a bronze medal at the Asian Road Para-cycling Championship in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in June, has devoted his life to qualifying for the Paralympics. Coach Al Murawwi emphasized the intense pressure on athletes to perform consistently over a four-year cycle: “The cyclist must have commitment and belief in himself. We provide all necessary support, but it also depends on the rider’s connection with the equipment, support, and passion.”

The coach sees the Paris Paralympics as a stepping stone for greater achievements: “This is his first time at this level, at the Olympics. Our goal is to achieve a good position and use this experience to aim for the next Games.”

For Al Badwawi, cycling has significantly impacted his life, helping him manage stress and focus on his goals. “Before the accident, I was all work,” he reflected. “Now, I work hard for an Olympic medal. Cycling has changed many aspects of my life, including how I schedule and respect my time. It helps reduce stress and pressure. I want to popularize paracycling in the UAE and show people what the sport can offer.”

Al Badwawi’s journey highlights the transformative power of sport and the relentless determination that drives him forward, aiming to inspire others through his achievements and dedication.

#trending #latest #Paralympics2024 #AhmedAlBadwawi #UAECyclist #CyclingChampion #ParaCycling #Paris2024 #DisabilityNoBarrier #SportsDetermination #UAEInspiration #CyclingJourney #AthleteFocus #ParaSports #InspiringAthletes #AdaptiveCycling #BreakingBarriers #headlines #topstories #globalUpdate #dxbnewsnetwork #dxbnews #dxbdnn #dxbnewsnetworkdnn #bestnewschanneldubai #bestnewschannelUAE #bestnewschannelabudhabi #bestnewschannelajman #bestnewschannelofdubai #popularnewschanneldubai

Organized by Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and ADNEC, the Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition sets a new Guinness World Record....Read More.

Vistara will send a substitute aircraft on Saturday to retrieve passengers stranded in Turkey after a Frankfurt-bound flight from Mumbai was diverted to Erzurum...Read More.